We aim to share the beautiful and brutal Filipino Combat System, Pekiti Tirsia Kali with the good people of Philadelphia, and the World, by: 1) providing top-quality, authorized instruction of the indigenous Pekiti Tirsia Kali (PTK) and the edged and impact weapons systems it encompasses, as well as 2) offering specialized programs grounded in PTK for Law Enforcement and Peace Officers, Personal and Family Protection, Women Empowerment, and Youth Programs, 3) with the intent of uplifitng humanity.

Legacy

Angola Tafari has been a practitioner of Pekiti Tirsia Kali since early 2005 and studied with First Generation student Tuhon Akmeed Boouraca. PTK-COP (City of Philadelphia) was formed in 2013 under the blessing and supervision of Tuhon Rommel Tortal, nephew of the GrandTuhon and Grandmaster of the System, Leo Gaje, Jr. PTK-COP is authorized under the Pekiti Tirsia Kali World Federation. Angola's wife, and co-Instructor, Lakan Guro Jenna began training in 2013 along with Lakan Tatlo Ricky Mel, forming the core of the group. PTK-COP were fortunate to meet various Tuhons, Mandalas, Group Instructors, and practitioners who all provided great support and contribution to growth over the years. Angola became an Authorized Group Leader under Tuhon Jared Wihongi and his Pekiti-Tirsia Tactical Association (PTTA) in 2014. The PTTA have a specialized branch for Law Enforcement Operators named the TRICOM Program. Angola has been fortunate to study, learn, participate, and at times assist Tuhon Jared during his various TRICOM Modules and Certification Programs. In August and November of 2015, PTKCOP hosted the GrandTuhon Leo Gaje, Jr. It was a great honor to have the Grandmaster of the Pekiti Tirsia Kali System share his wisdom in Philadelphia and with the group. His presence for those months became a memorable experience for the group and instructors.

LiveBlade, LLC was formed in 2016 to meet the needs of the various demographics who seek Protective Services and Training. Good people should feel safe and secure in their lives. Combat-oriented, we bring an urban perspective and edge to our methodology. We know how the city life can present many dangers for women, men, and families. As well as our officers who have sworn to protect and serve. Our programs explore the many reality and possibilities the concrete jungle can bring.

Pekiti Tirsia Kali

Pekiti Tirsia Kali is an indigenous, highly effective, close quarters, in-fighting system of combat from Negros Occidental in the Philippines. Pekiti Tirsia is a complete system that incorporates both weapons and empty hands methods designed for both single and multiple attackers. It is a primarily Blade Culture, deriving it's tactics and strategies from edged weapon encounters. It was brought to the U.S. in 1972 by Grand Tuhon Leo Tortal Gaje Jr., the grandson of Conrado Tortal and heir to the Pekiti Tirsia System. The Tortal family can trace the practice of their Kali tradition for generations. Pekiti Tirsia Kali has since expanded worldwide. PTK is currently taught to the US Marines, US law-enforcement nationwide, Filipino Force Recon Marines, and various security, law enforcement, and military agencies internationally.

Pekiti-Tirsia Kali is combat oriented, not for tournament or sports. It is based on geometric physics and science, the study of anatomy and the human body, and an analysis of behavior, emotions, and sensitivity to intent. It is grounded in philosophy, logic, and reason. The philosophy is "We believe in Life, We believe in Health, We believe in Success." So our combat principles are grounded in a love for life, health, success for ourselves, family, and neighbors. Character development is as relevant as skill development, and they system will not be taught to those who demonstrate poor character and disregard for his or her neighbor. All of this rooted in the culture of the Philippines. Understanding and respecting Filipino culture and history, it's diversity and it's unity, the language, as well as the ancient indigenous way, is a requirement for those on the path to truly learn the system.